Introduction

Charleston, South Carolina is full of incredible attractions including over 1400 historic buildings in its Historic District alone! This is the reason why just one Charleston vacation can’t possible cover every single attraction so careful planning is key!

By land, by sea, by foot or horse you will never be at a loss for something to see, do or learn about in Charleston. With its diverse history, dating back to the birth of America, Charleston claims a spicy past and it is not afraid to share its secrets. Therefore, prepare yourself for a lot of fun on your holiday in Charleston, South Carolina.

Cheap Holiday Deals to Charleston, South Carolina

Cheap Hotel Deals to Charleston, South Carolina

Cheap Flight Deals to Charleston, South Carolina

---

Gallery

---

Attractions

Charleston Attractions

A number of the best attractions in Charleston are similar to one another, which mean you don’t have to see them all to get a full taste of each of the area’s highlights. For instance, numerous plantations and gardens are open for tours and while each of them has their own individual charm, you might choose to visit just one instead of all of them.

If you enjoy history, Charleston is rich in it and the first thing you cannot miss here is the Historic District. A great variety of historically significant buildings are packed into the narrow streets in the historic district. Plan to spend a day wandering these streets and touring a few that grab your interest.

Among the best attractions in Charleston is Fort Sumter National Monument. The ruined remains of the scene of the first battle of the Civil War are accessible only by boat. Also, you can learn about the history by visiting their educational centre before boarding the ferry to Fort Sumter. Drayton Hall is one of the best plantations in Charleston with its National Historic Landmark status and sprawling gardens. You can explore the home, tour the gardens, wander along the river’s edge, and reflect on slavery at the African-American cemetery.

The Charleston Museum is one of the oldest and one of the best attractions in Charleston. This museum has the distinction of being America’s first museum and is a must for any history buff visiting the Charleston area. The museum covers it all: cultural history, natural history, and war history. From fossils to elegant displays of Charleston culture and access to historic houses, you’ll find everything you need to learn about the rich, centuries-old history of the low-country.

Yet perhaps you are just looking for a little relaxation as well. At Folly Beach, Waterfront Park, Francis Marion National Forest, the Charles Pinckney National Historic Site or the Sullivan Island Lighthouse you will find just what you are looking for. The beaches in the Charleston area are some of the best attractions with white sand, sand dunes, sea turtles, lighthouses, piers, and a variety of beach activities sure to boost any vacation. You’ll have plenty of choices to choose from as Charleston is surrounded by barrier islands featuring miles of coastline.

Also, explore the waters and meet some amazing dolphins on your way to the Gullah Islands. There are a lot of ocean faring tours to see Charleston. Shell collecting, swimming, snorkelling and wind surfing are all favourite pastimes for both resident and tourists. View exotic fish up close at the Charleston Aquarium. The South Carolina Aquarium is a great place for the whole family. Here you will have encounters with river otters, turtles, birds, snakes, fish and sharks as you explore the numerous living exhibits.

If golf is your desire, Charleston offers a number of top rated golf courses. Check out Kiawah Island Golf Resort on Kiawah Island or Wild Dunes on the Isle of Palms.

---

Restaurants

Charleston Restaurants

Some people would say Charleston tastes as good as it looks. And so there is no surprise many visitors come to Charleston with one thing on their mind, which is food. There is a list of some the best restaurants in Charleston, South Carolina below:

MERCATO - Overlooking the historic City Market, Mercato combines an expressive, stylish, and fun attitude with authentic and fresh Italian regional classics. The sophisticated surroundings include a European-style bar framed by richly-hues Venetian plaster walls. Live Cafe Jazz and dinner nightly.

Hank's Seafood Restaurant - By design and cuisine, Hank's resembles a decades-old market area fixture reminiscent of a classic 1940s Charleston fish house. Chef Frank McMahon serves local classics and innovative specials. Named Best Seafood Restaurant 12 years running by Charleston City Paper.

Charleston Crab House - Water Front Dining - “Family Owned for 20 years & Still Crackin” Serving fresh Lowcountry seafood everyday! Indoor/outdoor seating and banquet rooms are available. Visit James Island for waterfront dining, Market Street for rooftop dining or Mt. Pleasant for patio dining.

SpiritLine Dinner Cruise - The SpiritLine Dinner Cruise aboard the Spirit of Carolina features fine cuisine prepared to order onboard, entertainment, dancing, fully stocked bar, and a magnificent cruise on Charleston Harbor. Departs Patriots Point Naval and Maritime Museum in Mt. Pleasant.

---

Shopping

Charleston Shopping

There is no surprise most people love shopping while on holidays and that includes not just the souvenirs and gifts. Well, if you are one of those, head to King Street in down town Charleston South Carolina. You'll find everything on King Street from really posh, chic and fashionable to the quaint and boutique. There are name brands and things you can only buy in Charleston. On King Street you can shop for clothes, antiques, books, jewelry, outdoor gear, art and crafts, shoes, souvenirs, furniture, dish-ware, and an endless array of gifts. And when you get hungry, there are an abundant number of restaurants just waiting to indulge you with southern hospitality.

There are more than thirty antique malls on Charleston's King Street where you'll discover collectibles from the 18th century. Dozens of art galleries show off the local artisans with paintings and sculpture. And then there are the trendy boutiques with one-of-a kind items and high end fashionable attire. And of course the well-known national brands like Saks Fifth Avenue, Victoria Secret, Nicole Miller and Ann Taylor..

---

---

Top of Page